On the Evil Scale: Keeper of La Tecla (The Key) Book Two

Within an hour and a half, it was now 2:15 in the afternoon, and all of the men gathered outside the manor, waiting to hear from Yzavela, but she had yet made her presence known. Glancing around, there must have been at least 1270 warriors gathering in groups according to their race or species, or just as comrades and friends.

Caleb, Nick and Wyatt stood outside the manor’s front doors, doing a quick headcount of 500 Demons male and female, 250 Wraiths, 40 half-breeds, 320 mortals and 150 Lycynians.

“Some turn out, huh?” the Englishman grew anxious, tapping a hand on his gun holsters. Searching around, hoping to spot Yzavela’s petite presence, she was absent, “She should be here, she’s late.”

“I’ll go see what’s taking her.” Wyatt moaned, then retreated into the manor. Making his way up the stairs, he knocked softly on the door that was left open ajar, “Yza?” he called out, gently pushing it open. He looked around the study, spotting her sitting in the chair, “Hey, can I come in?”

“Y-yeah. Come in…” I answered, clearing my throat.

“Everyone’s waiting for you out there.” Wyatt revealed, “You have a good turn out too. I think just about every man or woman is waiting.”

“Women?” I wondered curiously.

“Yeah, you know…some of them are warriors too.”

“I know that, I didn’t mean for it sound like that, but…” I argued.

“I get it.” Wyatt grinned, “Are you okay?”

“No.” I groaned, walking around the desk, leaning against its ledge, “How is anyone ready to tell people that look up to them to protect them, that they might be in danger? Again. Or worse?” I complained.

“Listen…” Wyatt approached her gently, “despite all of the bullsh*t that’s happened between you and Leonus, it doesn’t that everyone out there hates you, it’s actually quite the opposite.” he reassured.

“What do you mean?” I wondered.

“Eh…” he jokingly shrugged, “I’m a Guardian, I hear things.”

“You hear things.” I chuckled softly, knowing he was trying to ease my tension and worry, “Well, I don’t want to know what those are.”

“We’re all here for you.” he placed a hand on her shoulder, “I hope you know that, no matter what you decide, we’re here for you.”

“Thank you.” I answered, “Because I need all the help I can get, and I honestly can’t seen how Marxus handled off this without going…” I thought of the right word to use.

“Completely and totally batsh*t crazy?” Wyatt finished, walking her toward the door.

“Exactly.” I smiled, “All right, let’s do this.” I sighed then turned to Abraxas and Zanzabarr, “Two you, come on…” I snapped.

“Where’s Anthony?” Wyatt stepped aside, allowing the dragon and wolf to pass ahead.

“He’s with Derek, or at least last time I talked to him he was, helping the other Lycynians come around to the cause.” I looked at him, “Why?”

“No reason, he’s just always around, I thought he’d be here.”

“You sound like Erik.” I groaned.

“That’s not what I mean.” he descended the steps behind her “It’s good that you have someone there for you, that’s what I meant. More so now that you’ve made an enemy of Leonus.”

“And others too, I’m sure?” I looked at him as we stepped across the foyer, standing in front of the doors before they opened.

“No, it’s just Leonus.” Wyatt muttered, “So, are you ready?”

“Ready as ever.” I announced confidently.

“Oh wait, there’s one thing you need to know about the crowd that’s outside I might have forgotten to mention.” Wyatt muttered softly.

“Oh god…” I fretted, turning to him, “What is it?” I worried.

“Everyone’s carrying a weapon.”

“Wh-what?! Why?!” I was surprised, “I didn’t want everyone to show up with weapons, that’s not what I asked for!” I huffed, “Wait…this is Ravenstone, I shouldn’t be surprised.”

“Yeah, well…according to this, people thought otherwise.” Wyatt removed a folded neon pink flyer from his pocket, handing it to her.

Unfolding it, I couldn’t believe the message that had been sent out:

Lowering the flyer that hurt my eyes from its neon color, I remained silent momentarily as I stared at my feet.

Wyatt placed his hands on his hips, watching and waiting for her to say something.

“Who made this?” I questioned, raising the paper.

Shrugging, Wyatt replied casually and humorously with a grin,

“Caleb, he thought making flyers about the meeting would be a faster way to spread the word about it, other than the broadcast system, of course.”

“Of course.” I moaned.

“And since you were too busy to send word via that platform, he uh, well did this.” the Demon chuckled.

“Mm, well…flyers I can deal with, but never did I say or hint for the weapons to be mentioned or carried.” I complained, “Caleb…” my hands slowly crumpled the paper, burning it my palms with my Aura. Allowing the ashes to fall to the ground, I closed my eyes, shaking my head.

“The wording might have been off the beaten path but everyone is out there, so focus on that and then afterwards, take care of the cocky dude.” Wyatt grinned, gently nudging her.

“At least he managed to make the words THANK YOU large, and bold enough.” I teased.

“Yeah, and there’s one more thing.” Wyatt squinted, raising a finger as if needing to add something more to the fire.

“Do I want to know?” I side eyed him.

“The papers are in colors, I mean they’re everywhere.” he joked.

“Of course they are.” I shrugged, “Caleb, Caleb…”

“Gotta love him though…” Wyatt affectionately muttered, sharing a close friendship with the Wraith as if he were a brother.

“Unfortunately it’s not that hard.” I smiled, then nodded, “Okay.”

Wyatt shared the nod, then stepped forward, opening the doors.

“This is ridiculous, come on!” Leonus boasted loudly, waving a hand in the air, “We’ve been waiting for almost thirty minutes, the girl can fix her wee hair later!” he mocked, receiving chuckles from those that were part of his pack.

“At least she takes care of herself!” one of the female Demons argued, “What’s your excuse?!”

“Zip it, Tinkerbell…” the Scotsman leered at her.

“Or what big wolf, hmm?” she spat, “You’re gonna cut my wings off, and with what? That little sword of yours?” she turned, laughing with her friends.

“There!” a man shouted from the mass, pointing toward the manor.

As the doors opened, two figures emerged and they were an awkward contrast to one another, a 6’4 Demon and a 5’2 half-breed stood on the steps by the doors that he slowly closed. Watching as they took a slow descent off the steps, the crowd was silent.

Walking through the mass with Abraxas on my shoulder, Wyatt just a few paces behind and Zanzabarr leading the way toward the large fountain, I planned what I wanted to say in my mind, muttering it in a soft whisper under my breath. Once making it to the ledge, I felt Wyatt’s hands helping me up onto the ledge, then I turned, glancing out into the sea of anxious, and curious faces staring back at me. As I closed my eyes, hearing their thoughts screaming their questions and concerns, I raised my head opening my eyes, watching as the Ravens soared, squawking loudly; their maneuvers and chirps helped drown out the voices for just a moment.

“This is ridiculous, we didn’t come out here to see her standing there watchin’ the bloody birds.” Leonus mocked, gesturing at her, and as he glanced forward, he felt a lump in his throat, for there she stood, leering at him, for unfortunately, with the eerie silence, his voice was heard.

Looking around, after breaking eye contact with the Leonus, I took notice that there were far too many figures, I wasn’t sure if my voice could speak loud enough, so clearing my throat, I gave it my best.

“I want to thank all of you for coming, and before anything is said, I sincerely want to apologize if you thought bringing weapons was part of the necessity. Those weren’t my instructions despite the words that were printed on the flyers.” I glanced toward Caleb who bit his lip with a pout, staring with his brown eyes. Receiving one of his wide, charming smiles, I chuckled then continued, “However, I can’t apologize for gathering you in such a rush, taking you away from your lives and families, I wouldn’t have done so if this wasn’t of such great importance. I’m sure some of you are wondering why I didn’t used the broadcast, but I felt this needed to be said and instructed in person, especially to all of those here that are warriors or have some background in it.”

“Why are we here, really?” a man shouted, “What’s going on?!”

“Are you leaving like Marxus, is this what this is about?!” one of the Lycynians loyal to Leonus shouted.

“Wishful thinking, but no.” I groaned, trying to find the man among all of the anxious faces.

“Then why are we here?!” Leonus boasted.

“I received word from someone in Whitehaven, one of Marxus’ most trustworthy sources, telling me that things in the Great City, they are getting worse. The Lord, this Drakuul Lexus, is beginning to spread his destruction like a poison in all directions on the mainland, there have been reports of flying ships, another swarm of Shadowed Ones and yes, that includes his most secret and dangerous weapon that I, unfortunately have not seen with my own eyes but I have sensed it.”

“What sort of secret?” a woman argued.

“I don’t know, but whatever it is, all of it is coming. According to his letter, there have been two monasteries that were destroyed, and the number of lives lost or survivors is unknown, but I know that many of you have families or friends that live on the mainland so you are more than welcome to reach out to them and bring them here, but I beg you to be careful. If any of you…” I leered in Leonus’ direction, “would like to read the letter for yourselves, I have sent copies via the broadcast system.

“These monasteries that you speak of…do you know which ones?” a man pleaded arguable, pushing his way through the crowd.

“No, the letter unfortunately didn’t state that.” I answered solemnly, “I have tried contacting this man, but he isn’t answering any of my calls for he too, like all of us here, are trying to safe from the evil that has taken root of the Great City and I’ll be honest…” I sighed, then watched as many of the figures removed their phones, beginning to read the message, “the Immortal in question isn’t someone that you should scoff at, I lived in that city for five years with my mother and we have seen things that probably some of you could never dream of.”

“She’s right!” another man shouted loudly, “I just received word that my sister and her husband were one of many that escaped one of the monasteries with many injured, they lost their son, my nephew!”

Listening as the crowd began muttering in support of her claims, the Scotsman was beginning to lose faith in his goal to take control. If he wanted to challenge her, he would be going against the residents that were confirming the reports of what has been revealed from her own lips.

“What are we going to do, what are YOU going to do?!” Leonus barked loudly, pushing his way through the crowd that parted, seeing his 6’6 bulk passing by.

“From what I’ve pieced together, we have plenty of time to prepare for what’s coming, considering the circumstances. We will need…” I continued, “to gather weapons, armor and possibly more men and yes, women that are willing to fight.” I looked around, then spotted Anthony and Thomas in the crowd, receiving agreeable nods, “And no, it doesn’t matter if they’re mortal, Wraith, Lycynian or Demon, if they can fight, that’s all that matters. However, not only does this threat endanger all of us here, it’s going to put into place quite a lot of changes around here.”

“Like what?!” Anthony wondered respectfully, as he pushed through with Thomas behind him.

“Starting Monday, there will be food cutbacks. The dining hall and Inn will no longer be serving three meals a day. If you want a meal, I do believe that’s what your dwellings are for, even your homes.” I leered toward Leonus, “Surely you can manage to go home and find something to eat, if not, cook it yourselves.” I finished, looking away, “There have been meat shortages from companies that the island is in production with, and I too, received that notice this morning if you would like to see it as well, they’re trying to serve their own inventories.” I paused, listening as some, mostly Lycynians, voiced their complaints loudly, “And for the Lycynians that love your slabs of meat three times a day, you’re going to have to deal with the cutbacks just like everyone else. A letter has been sent to the staff and they have agreed to the changes, and if some of you, preferably you Leonus f*cking Lancaster don’t approve too bad, it’s done. You will still find bagels, toast and fruit, oatmeal, tea and coffee but no more of the large breakfasts, lunches and dinners. And NO…meats.”

“But we need to eat!” Leonus boasted, “You can’t do this, we all have dietary needs, why don’t you cutback on the bloodsuckers or…or…” he turned gesturing at the crowd.

“Congratulations Leonus, you went from Lycynian to seal in a blink of an eye.” Nick mocked, slapping his hands, making the sounds of a seal, then glanced at Yzavela, “Sorry.” he cleared his throat.

I couldn’t help but smile but then clearing my throat, I finished.

“Because the Wraiths don’t eat, you dumba** that’s why, besides you already tried cutting back and clearly you haven’t forgotten how that turned out, hmm?” I mocked, leering down at the Scotsman.

“How can I forget?” he growled, leering up at her, then glanced to the left, seeing Wyatt nearby, giving a sarcastic wave, “What about the Demons, or better yet, your bloody wolf and dragon, huh?! Does this cutback pertain to them too?!” he raised a fist in the air, loudly protesting, as did the other Lycynians who hollered in favor, “And what about your lover, doesn’t he eat meat?!”

“I was actually thinking about becoming a vegetarian, so I’ll be fine.” Anthony sarcastically barked, then folded his arms.

As the Lycynians continued hooting and hollering, the crowd became too loud and chaotic. As Wyatt, Nick, Caleb, Justin and Anthony, as well as Erik and Jonathan stood in front of the fountain protecting her, they waited for her orders as to what actions to take, while her wolf and dragon grew anxious.

“Step aside…” I ordered firmly, placing a hand on Anthony’s and Nick’s shoulder. Watching as the Wraith and Lycynian followed my instructions, they stepped aside, allowing the wolf and dragon to let out piercing roars and howls that silenced the crowd, but it was the Lycynians and Leonus that continued ranting loudly. As I closed my eyes, trying to contain my temper and Aura, it failed as I listened to the Scotsman’s gruff voice mocking and laughing. Leaping off the fountain’s ledge, I approached the man, however, the water from the fountain behind me began boiling profusely, frightening the frogs and fish that splashed around, trying to find safe places to go.

“Yza…” Nick muttered, “you’re boiling the water, calm down!”

I paused, turning to the Wraith, then glanced past his shoulder, and took notice of the steam crawling across the surface of the water. I frowned, waving my right hand outward, extinguishing the steam that evaporated quickly. Erik and Jonathan, with the three Guardians rushed around the fountain, chasing the frogs back into the water, while Anthony stood by near Zanzabarr and Abraxas.

“Leonus, if you want meat, go to the mainland and hunt for it.” I moaned, “After all, you once told me and everyone here, that you’re a skilled hunter that went hunting with your family, isn’t that right?” I watched as he remained silent, biting his lip, “Now, I’m only giving you three seconds to walk away with your life in tact, because the only reason you’re still alive is for Heather’s sake, but once things change in that department, you’re mine.” my Aura grew brighter.

“Meaning what?” Leonus questioned, watching as she turned away.

“ONE.” I muttered over my shoulder.

“Answer me!” he shouted after her.

“TWO.”

Leonus’ comrades rushed forward, grabbing onto his arms, trying to pull him back, talking him down. Whispering words that boosted his ego, stating there would be another day to get his revenge, the men all listened as he growled, continuing to leer at her with his red eyes.

“Lancaster, mate…come on.” one of the men urged, “Worry about the b*tch later, come on…” he was afraid that he would wind up in the cell next to him, “come on, you mad bastard, you already know what she’ll do and can do it, COME ON!” he groaned.

The Guardians, Erik and Jonathan, Anthony stepped forward across his path, protecting Yzavela as she stood behind them with her wolf and dragon, slowly extinguishing her Aura. Caleb, always cocky, gestured for the men to move on with just a nudge of his head in their direction, as if to get going. Gripping the hilt of his guns, the Wraith watched the Lycynian’s hesitation.

“This isn’t over…” Leonus shouted, pointing at her, “do you hear me, mark my words, this isn’t over!”

“I know it’s not Leonus, it never is.” I answered, then ignored him in all regards, continuing to address the crowd, “Return to your shops and homes, starting getting to work.” I received no answer, only nods, “If you have any questions, come to the study. This meeting is over, thank you for your attention to this matter, and for showing up.”

“If that’s all you called us here for, why did we need weapons?” Nathan bellowed arrogantly, smoking a cigarette, “Hmm?!”

“I don’t know, I asked for your presence only, you made the decision to bring them, unfortunately going by the flyers.” I snapped, looking in Caleb’s direction. Shaking my head with an affectionate grin, the Wraith held his head low.

Saying nothing, Nathan shrugged it off then turned, strolling among the crowd that dispersed, whispering among themselves yet again.

“That went well.” I complained softly.

“But you did good.” Erik turned to her.

“You did amazing.” Anthony praised.

“Hmm, well…it didn’t feel that.” I groaned, then before Caleb had a chance to return to his post, I called him aside, fiddling with one of the flyers I reached for nearby, “Um, Caleb…”I gently tapped the paper on his arm, “what the hell did you think I meant by calling all warriors?”

“Well, I figured it would get everyone’s attention in way that’s better than us goin’ around saying THE KEEPER REQUIRES YOU, OR YOU TO ARRIVE AT THE MANOR, don’t you think?” he tried offering a smile but it wasn’t received as humorous. As it faded, he gulped, “I mean, look…it worked though, didn’t it?” he gestured his around.

“Hmm, touche.” I chuckled. He was too adorable to get angry at, “I get it, and thank you.” I grinned, “Now, go on…get back to work.” and just as Nick, Wyatt and Caleb disappeared, I shook my head, “My Guardians.” I then released a soft sigh.

“So this is really happening.” Jonathan muttered, sitting on the ledge of the fountain, watching as water spots began drying in some places.

“Yes, unfortunately it is.” I worried.

“Even this place, no matter how protected it might be, faces dangers from the outside world.” Anthony added, standing next to her, “But we are all here for you, despite Leonus’ protests.”

Looking up at him, I smiled.

“True.” I leaned into his embrace, then looked around, taking in the sight of colored papers, “Look at this, it looks like a dragon vomited everywhere.” I complained then turned to Abraxas, hearing him let out a soft roar, “Sorry.”

“We’ll take care of it.” Erik suggested, looking at Jonathan, “You’re not a bloody slave, so it’s not your place to clean it up.”

“You’re not slaves either.” I frowned.

“Honestly Yza, it’s fine.” Jonathan reassured, “Why don’t you get back to the study before you set things aflame or worse, cook the fish and frogs.”

“I resent that but…” I glanced at him, “fair enough.” I hoped that he meant his words humorously. Sighing softly, I nodded then turned and walked away with Anthony, Zanzabarr and Abraxas, leaving the two Demons behind to gather the flyers but it didn’t feel right.

“You’re not going to let it go, are you?” Anthony smiled.

“Nope.” I grinned, then turned, and concentrating on all of the flyers, the papers erupted into bright spurts of flame where they laid, or in both the Demons’ hands. Once their embers disintegrated, I felt just a little better, “Setting things on fire isn’t a problem.”

“Feel better?!” Jonathan teased telepathically, waving a hand.

“Much.” I answered.

“We had this, you know.” Erik argued.

“I know but still…” I moaned, shaking my head, “you’re welcome.”

Saying nothing, Erik gulped, seeing that her powers were growing each and everyday. She was just a half-breed in his eyes, but far more than those on the island. Dusting his hands off, he patted his friend on the shoulder, turning away before they vanished in swirling flames.

Retreating to study, with the door closed and locked for privacy. As we sat on the couch, talking about the things to come, there was then an eerie silence. Leaning my head against his chest, listening to his deep, slow breathing, I closed my eyes, feeling his fingers tracing up and down my back. It was a moment where nothing needed to be said, and as I looked up at him, I smiled before sitting up, leaning my head against his. Before locking lips passionately, I straddled him; my hands gripped the collar of his shirt, before caressing them around his neck. Moaning, feeling his hands run down my back, unlacing the stitches of my bustier and his lips kissing down my neck, I held my head back, enjoying the feel of his touch and kisses.

Pulling his head away, watching as she closed her eyes enjoying his touch, Anthony grinned then leaned in, continuing to love her as he ripped at the laces, before tossing the leather piece aside, then slid her blouse off her shoulders before pulling it up and over head, tossing it aside with her bustier. Glancing at her lingerie bodice, he pulled the straps off her shoulders then leaned in, kissing her chest and the upper parts of her breasts, while holding her close, wrapping his arms around her. Continuing to love her heatedly, he felt her hands gripping his back before she pushed him away, wanting to undress him. Growing a sly, sexy grin, he watched as her petite form began steaming in a faint outline, knowing she was in a sexual state of mind and emotions that were just as expressive as his own.

Undressing him, I bit my lip, for I couldn’t wait until I felt him, and his body atop mine. Leaning in, gripping his shoulders, he and I both managed to remove the lower parts of our clothing, leaving only just a moment before I sat closer to him, moaning deeply, and loudly, as I felt him again, and from the sounds of his ecstasy and sexual growls, it was perfect. Feeling him lying me back, I adjusted to the different position on the couch, welcoming him eagerly.

As Anthony climbed atop her, running one hand up her thigh and the other wrapping around her back, he joined her, moaning deeply in a masculine grunt. Fiercely moving with her, growling passionately, it was then a loud knock on the door interrupted their passion. As he glanced over his shoulder, his yellow eyes leered toward the door.

“Don’t stop…” I panted in a moment of complete ecstasy, gripping onto him tightly, “please!” I gasped.

Looking down at her, Anthony continued his powerful thrusts and groaned deeply with underlying growls, digging his nails deeply into the leather fabric, almost tearing it when leaning into his kiss her, the Latin lovers climaxed with a pleasurable sigh, both sweating from the heated exertion.

Suddenly, there was another knock on the door.

“Tell me they’re joking?!” Anthony panted in complaint.

“Who cares…” I purred, kissing him again, holding him close, “just pretend they’re not there.” I looked into his yellow eyes, seeing both his Lycynian and Italian tempers rise, then I groaned, side eyeing the door, hearing the knocks, “Oh my god…seriously?” I complained.

Anthony growled.

“Who is it?!” I called out impatiently.

“Yza?” Lady D’s voice answered softly.

“Oh my god…” I closed my eyes, with an embarrassed smile, then I looked up at Anthony, placing my hands on his chest, “well, that was incredible while it lasted, hmm?”

“You can always tell her to go away.” Anthony leaned in, kissing her neck, “I want more…” he growled in her ear, keeping himself close against her small frame.

“And I…” I giggled softly, “want more too, but…” I paused for my mom knocked once more, “she isn’t going to go away, and I do not think if you answered the door looking this…” I glanced down at his naked body, “would do much justice, you would cause a heart attack.”

“Aye, si…” he grinned, then kissing her longingly, he pulled his head away, slowly climbing off, covering himself with one of the blankets. Watching as she she sat up covering herself with another blanket, he grinned, feeling her kiss his shoulder before standing, beginning to gather her clothes, and his, tossing them onto the couch, “This is just unfair.” he complained as he stood, wrapping the blanket around his hips.

“I know…” I moaned.

“Yza?!” Lady D knocked yet again.

“Yeah, I’m coming!” I hollered out over my shoulder.

“Yes, you are…” Anthony growled sexually, stepping toward her.

“Seriously, if you don’t get dressed I…”my hands ran down his chest.

“Yes?” he wrapped his arms around her wait, rubbing her back, then leaned in, kissing her neck and shoulder, receiving soft giggles.

“Mm-mm…” I moaned softly, gently pushing him away, “no…no.” then I turned toward the door, approaching it. Standing close to the panels, I spoke loudly enough for my mom to hear, “Give me just a moment, sorry. I was…” I turned, glancing at Anthony, “distracted.”

Anthony grinned at her, then retreated to the bathroom, carrying his clothes.

“All right, I’ll just wait out here.” Lady D answered.

“Y-yeah, okay…” I slid my hands down the door, “sorry.”

Lady D shook her head, knowing the distraction. Taking a seat in the private lounge on one of the couches, she reached for one of the magazines, skimming through the pages. It was fifteen, maybe twenty minutes when the door opened. Placing the magazine on the table, she watched as Anthony emerged, inconspicuously adjusting his belt, while her daughter fiddled with her blouse that hung just a bit off her shoulders.

“We’ll finish this later.” I cleared my throat, looking up at Anthony.

“Si, we will.” he leaned in, kissing her quickly, then turned to Lady D, “Ma-ma D, good morning.” he greeted her.

“Good morning.” Lady D smiled.

Anthony felt awkward, standing between the two women, then swept himself down the stairs.

“Sorry about that.” I greeted my mom with a brief hug.

“It’s all right.” Lady D studied her daughter, seeing her flushed face.

“Come in…” I gestured inside.

“Mm…” Lady D slowly walked past her daughter, looking around then turned to her daughter, “so have you heard anything new from Billy? I heard about the meeting this morning from some of the loud, and excited warlocks that attended.”

“Ah, yes…” I closed the door, approaching the desk, “it went just as expected, I suppose.” I shrugged, offering her a seat, “Leonus, haha no surprise, tried causing a riot among the crowd and it had almost escalated but you know me…I put him in his place.” I huffed.

“I can’t believe this is happening.” Lady D worried, “Not again, and here I thought we were safe here, you know?” she looked over at her daughter that stood on the other side of the desk before veering around it.

“Mommy…” I knelt in front of her, “this situation is different.”

“How?”

“Because this time we’re going to be prepared for it, and this time, we have Demons, Wraiths, and dragons to fight with us. Besides…” I sat next to her, gripping her hands, “we’re not running this time, this is our home and we are going to protect it.”

“You’re older than your years, you know. How did you get so wise?”

“I get that from you.” I offered her a comforting smile.

“Yes well…I set the guidelines for you, the rest is all yours.” Lady D squeezed her hands.

Looking at her, I felt saddened. It’s always been my mom and I since my father died when I was five years old, the closeness we share isn’t just a parent-child bond, but we are best friends and I don’t think a lot of individuals can say that about their parents and relationships. If so, that’s great, but if not, it’s sad. My mom and I take moments to hug one another, even it’s a passing one, because you never know if they could be our last.

“Honestly…” Lady D looked at her daughter, “I can’t see how you handle all of this.” she pondered, “How do you stay sane?”

“What the hell makes you think I’m sane?!” I teased with a laugh, “I try, but it’s not easy, trust me. Especially when it comes to Leonus or the spit spats between the Wraiths and Lycynians, and now this from the Great City…” I sighed heavily with regret, “I have no idea how the hell Marxus managed all of this by himself, despite having help from Axeon.”

“Well, you’re not alone, so if you need anything, you know that I’ll help in any way that I can. The other witches and warlocks too, for I have spoken to them and they too, are all worried hearing about the two monasteries that were destroyed.” Lady D informed, “There are only so many prayers and spells that we can put out there before the magical airwaves get clogged with too much intent, you know how that goes. Too much, is too much, even for the universe to handle.” she waved her hands around, then glanced at the time, “So, you and Anthony must have been in quite the discussion before I interrupted.”

I smiled widely, like a giddy school girl, then felt a warm flush to my face, knowing that I must have been blushing profusely.

“It was…” I stood slowly, “that’s all I’m going to tell you.”

“Mm-hmm.” Lady D shook her head, “Can’t get enough, makes a lot of sense.”

“Mommy…” I giggled softly, feeling embarrassed.

“What!?” Lady D smiled as she stood, “I’m old, I”m not dead yet.”

“So you keep saying.” I shook my head.

“But anyway…” Lady D glanced at the clock, “geez, where the hell did time go?” her eyes widened.

“That happens a lot around here, especially when you’re in too deep.” I muttered, then realized how that must have sounded, “Sh*t, that’s not what I meant, but you know what I mean.” I chuckled.

“Yes, I know.” Lady D shook her head.

Covering my mouth, feeling a yawn coming on, I blinked.

“Let’s go home and get some sleep, I’ll have to take you on that offer to help and we are going to need all the rest we can get.” I suggested.

Lady D nodded, then watched as her daughter scampered around the desk, retrieving stacks of papers, tucking them into a leather folder with Billy’s letter. Exiting the study with Zanzabarr and Abraxas, the mother and daughter slowly descended the stairs, then walked down the path taking them back to their dwelling. Entering through the lounge, there were a few women sitting at the kitchen table, many of the witches that worked with Lady D.

Greeting them quickly, accepting their offers to help in any or all of the magical endeavors, I then guided my mom to her room, paying a brief visit with Freya who meowed, and rubbed around my ankles. As I picked up the small feline, I kissed her between the ears then right on her whiskers before putting her on my mom’s bed. Once I offered my final goodnight for the night, I retreated upstairs where there was a single rose placed by my door with a note attached. Smiling, I knew it was from Anthony and as I read the note, I bit my lip, taking the words seriously for they were sexual in nature and desire.

“A rose for a rose, one that I can not wait to cherish and tend to its delicate petals with a sweet fragrance that drives me wild.”

“Anthony Giovanni.” I shook my head, “Italian of mine.” I entered my room, summoning my wolf and dragon inside. Taking a long, hot shower, I closed my eyes, feeling the hot temperatures of the water, then turned off the water. Stepping out of the shower, steaming quickly drying my skin, I dressed in one of the Anthony’s shirts that he had left behind, then climbed into bed, beginning to go over all of the paperwork tucked away in the folder. Repeatedly reading Billy’s letter, I sighed setting it aside then reached for the inventory sheets and shipment manifests, making sure all of the changes that I had announced were set in motion. Studying what would be canceled, I tapped a pen against the paper, seeing that there were no many things that were unnecessary, wondering how Marxus allowed them on the island in the first place, much less spending money on them. It was a waste.

Molock, having a moment between his duties, took the time to drop in on the half-breed, observing her closely. She had managed to grasp his interest, and when he takes interest, nothing can break that focus. Standing outside her patio doors, he waved his hands, creating what looked like a window-like bubble in front of him, allowing him clear view inside the young woman’s room; the Raven haired petite woman laid on her bed. Waving his hands in the opposite direction, the window disappeared and as he walked through the doors, as if they had no solid substance, he appeared in her room, standing near the chairs and table by the doors. Glancing around, he watched as her supernatural familiars laid with her protectively, stretched out across her feet.

“Little Demoness…” he whispered, approaching her bed. Watching as the wolf and dragon raised their heads, they leered at him, before they began stirring in place. Slowing raising his hands, he slowly and carefully reached for the blanket at her feet, but before he could even touch the fabric, the wolf lunged forward, snapping his jaws with an aggression that he admired, “All right, have it your way then.” he stood straight, waving his left hand toward the blanket, and using his magic, he pulled it over the young woman’s legs and body, then with the snap of his fingers on his right hand, the scattered papers all had appeared tucked in the leather folder on the bedside table with her glasses laying atop, “You did well today.” he softly whispered, “I’m proud.”

Zanzabarr and Abraxas felt the being stood too close to her; the wolf and dragon slowly, and threateningly stood, approaching the ledge of the bed, releasing deep growls and hisses.

Molock backed away in slow, respectful steps, retreating back toward the chairs near the patio doors, watching as her large hellhound and Zyphyn quickly climbed off the bed; the wolf’s paws thumped heavy on the hard floor, and her dragon flew landing on the back of the nearest chair, stretching out his wings and flicking his tail, while his neck craned high. Before he could speak to the supernatural beasts, Molock glanced to his right where another figure appeared, looking just like the young woman that laid in the bed, her doppelganger, Lilith.

Abraxas and Zanzabarr glanced at her with confusion, then turned to the bed, seeing their mother still laid sleeping, but stirring in place, turning her back to them.

“Relax, it’s all right.” Molock whispered, “We don’t mean her harm.”

“It’s all right, beasties…” Lilith added sarcastically.”

“Lilith!” Molock barked telepathically, slowly turning to her.

“What?!” she argued, stomping quickly, “You are not the only one that visits her, you know.” she folded her arms.

Zanzabarr growled, hunching his back while Abraxas released puffs of smoke and embers.

Lilith remained silent, knowing that if they attacked, they would have NO control over the supernatural, and powerful creatures. Not even Molock who had managed to somewhat train the Cerberus hounds. Suddenly, the two Demons glanced toward the bed, hearing Yzavela speaking softly as she turned.

“Zanzabarr, Abraxas…what is it?”

Hearing her voice, the wolf and dragon ran toward her.

Molock snarled, then turned, roughly grabbing Lilith’s petite arm. As he disappeared in a burst of red flame, he reappeared on the balcony.

“What the hell is wrong with you?!” Molock scolded, releasing her.

“Me?!” Lilith mocked, raising her hands to her chest, “You are the one lurking around her room when she sleeps, and I have known you for what, over six thousands years now?” her voice rasped, “I never would have thought you to be pervert, I mean really Molock, if you want a woman, that’s what the whores in Hell are for, and according to them, you haven’t visited them in quite a while, nor have you even called for any of them.”

Molock raged, pushing her against the iron railing, pressing her small hands onto the metal, letting it burn her hands. Wrapping his right hand around her small neck, he leaned in close, flashing his demonic red eyes, making eye-to-eye contact.

“What I do and where I go, or who I see…is NONE of your little god damn f*cking business, so if you don’t want OUR Lord to know that you’re showing interest in another man’s affairs, then I suggest that you keep your nose out of things that don’t pertain to you, do I make myself clear?!”

“Perfectly…” she rasped, grabbing onto his wrist, “but wh-what will our Lord think about your precious Keeper and th-the feelings that you have for her, hmm?” she taunted,“You have no soul remember, so what makes you think she could ever…” she gasped, feeling his grip tighten around her neck, “l-love you?” she finished, “Her heart already belongs to another, that Italian Anthony Giovanni s-so what are you doing to do, hmm? Eliminate him so you can have her?!”

Molock squeezed harder, listening to her gasping breaths, before he roughly pushed her backwards, releasing his grip. Watching as she fell onto the balcony’s platform, moaning in displeasure, she rubbed her neck and throat before examining her blistered hands.

Lilith was Lucifer’s concubine, belonging to him alone, so if he were to ever find out about her interest in Molock’s affairs, that would be a lot of trouble with a capital T for her, and something she couldn’t flirt her way out of. Knowing the consequences, she glanced up at the Sumerian’s tall 6’4 godly stature, afraid of his power and demeanor, and even though he might have been Lucifer’s right hand, and second in command, being named one of the Princes of Hell, and Death, the man possessed the persona of being the devil himself.

“Get out…of my sight.” Molock warned verbally, without looking at her.

“Hmm…” she moaned then disappeared, leaving the Sumerian alone.

Pacing, Molock breathed heavily, hating the circumstances of his life, then he turned, hearing the woman’s voice from inside.

“What is it?” I threw the blanket back in confusion, knowing that I had fallen asleep uncovered, “What the?” I frowned, then watched as Zanzabarr and Abraxas continued their pacing, pestering behavior.

“There is a man and woman outside.” Abraxas spoke telepathically, “A man that I have never seen before, he and the woman were here in your room. The other woman was you, but yet she was not you.”

“A man that you’ve never seen before and woman that was me, but yet not me?” I muttered in confusion, “And in here?” my dark eyes frantically searched the room.

“Yes, Mother.” the dragon nodded, “She had your face.”

“Had my face?” I wondered curiously, “You mean a doppelganger?”

“Yes.”

Knowing that if a person had ever seen their doppelganger, that was a superstitious myth that one, or the other, would die. Jumping from my bed, running toward Marxus’ sword, I quickly removed it from its sheath, then cautiously approached the patio doors where I could see a tall, godly figure standing outside. I could see him even without my glasses through the sheer fabric of the curtains.

“I know you’re there, I can see you!” I called out firmly, “W-who are you?!” I watched as the man turned toward the door, but his face was unclear to see, “What do you want?!” I continued, gripping the hilt firmly.

“I mean you no harm Demoness…” the man answered in a familiar, and deep voice, “I have said that before, and some part of you know that to be true.”

“Who are you?!” I demanded, approaching the doors closer, “W-why won’t you reveal yourself to me?!”

“Be careful what you ask for, Demoness.” the man laughed.

I realized how that might have sounded. Reaching for the curtains, I wasn’t quick enough because just as swung the fabric aside, the man was gone. Quickly opening the doors, feeling the cool air tickle my legs, I caught the faint scent of sulfur and an enticing aroma of herbs like Sandalwood and Frankincense, “What the f*ck is going in this place?” I commented, holding the sword down by my side. Looking around, I then retreated inside, locking the door and quickly closing the curtains, “F*ck me…” I complained, walking over, sheathing the sword, then stood it beside the bed.